Workforce Development/Education
Supporting Employers and Job-Seekers throughout
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton/Hazleton MSA and BEYOND

Job Training Programs Training programs help NEPA businesses invest in the area’s greatest asset….our PEOPLE. Northeastern Pennsylvania has been investing in land, buildings, and infrastructure for many years.  Today, NEPA is investing in human capital…..its PEOPLE.  For employers in NEPA, work force training programs are available to meet your needs and for employees access to continuous learning and career ladder opportunities are available.  Individuals need training that supports their aspirations and businesses need employees that serve their needs.  Pennsylvania offers several workforce development and grant programs.  Each program is responsive to employer needs.  Guaranteed Free Training (WEDnetPA), www.wednetpa.com, provides grant funds for basic entry-level skills and advanced information technology skills for employees.  Customized Job Training(CJT), www.inventpa.com, (Click on Business in PA, Click on Workforce Development) provides grant funds for specialized job training to existing or newly hired employees.  Critical Job Training Grant (CJTGs), www.inventpa.com, (Click on Find specific initiative and programs, Click on Critical Job Training Grants) encourages rapid training and skills-building to fill available jobs. Pennsylvania Workforce Improvement Network, (PAWin),www.ed.psu.edu/pawin, provides high quality workplace foundation skills training and education programs for incumbent workers in Pennsylvania. Adult Literacy and Workforce Skills On-Line Program, provides an on-line learning environment for adults to improve skills is employment, math, communications and writing skills, and reading skills. Job Creation Grant Program.  The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) in the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has authorized the establishment of a Job Creation grant program to allow businesses in NEPA to receive assistance in hiring workers with disabilities.  The object of the program is to create 24 new jobs for companies in NEPA by giving assistance in the acquisition of machinery and equipment that will be used by workers with disabilities. Incumbent Worker Training.  Training assistance to individuals currently employed in either a full-time or part-time position with little or no chance for upward mobility Other training programs include, On-the-Job Training These are just a few of the many training programs available to new companies, growing businesses, and those seeking employment in NEPA.  Additional  programs exist at colleges/universities, career schools, and vocational-technical schools throughout the area. Our community also offers a host of private training providers and consultants specializing in workforce development and human resources.  These entities work closely with employers and economic development professionals to custom develop training programs and access training grants.  For further information, contact Jane Ashton at (570) 823-2101 or email at jashton@wilkes-barre.org.